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From R950 per night (sleeps 2)
65
5
1
5
261 Elephant Lodge
Mabalingwe, R516 Rooiberg
0480
Limpopo
021 344 2440
14:00-19:00
10:00
-24.849583159317
28.042704954426
De Vrolike Vark
De Vrolike Vark
De Vrolike Vark
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These self-catering units each have a separate entrance and each can accommodate up to 2 guests. Each unit is equipped with 2 single beds that can also be converted to a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom, with a shower. Linen and bath towels are supplied and the bedrooms are equipped with air-conditioning.
The kitchen of each unit is equipped with a fridge, 2-plate stove, microwave, coffee- and tea-making facilities, crockery and cutlery.
The lounge area of each unit has comfortable couches and a TV with a DStv Premium package. Wi-Fi and a UPS in case of load shedding are also available.
The units have their own private boma overlooking a small stream.
The units are within easy reach of the communal swimming pool, a mini-golf course, tennis courts, a squash court, a table tennis table, a pool table, an astro court, and a shop.
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horseback rides, a restaurant, a ladies' bar and the unique Kalahari bush pub. At the swimming pool, Eddie and Simon will entertain the kids for hours.
These self-catering units each have a separate entrance and each can accommodate up to 2 guests. Each unit is equipped with 2 single beds that can also be converted to a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom, with a shower. Linen and bath towels are supplied and the bedrooms are equipped with air-conditioning.
The kitchen of each unit is equipped with a fridge, 2-plate stove, microwave, coffee- and tea-making facilities, crockery and cutlery.
The lounge area of each unit has comfortable couches and a TV with a DStv Premium package. Wi-Fi and a UPS in case of load shedding are also available.
The units have their own private boma overlooking a small stream.
The units are within easy reach of the communal swimming pool, a mini-golf course, tennis courts, a squash court, a table tennis table, a pool table, an astro court, and a shop.
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horseback rides, a restaurant, a ladies' bar and the unique Kalahari bush pub. At the swimming pool, Eddie and Simon will entertain the kids for hours.
Features
Reviews (65)
65 guests' feedbackVery friendly and well organised.
Wow, what an amazing, clean, and well-organised place to stay for a weekend or even a week! It’s so convenient and beautifully decorated—truly a gem. I could easily see myself staying here for a long time. Thank you for sharing this wonderful find with us and allowing us to experience this piece of heaven. Again, this is so bliss in the heart of the bush, and experiencing the wonders of nature and what it has to offer. Love the bush braai area, and the lovely stoep area. The aircon and kitchen are just a plus point. There is nothing to complain about. Thank you for having us.
Will definitely come again!
The unit where we stayed was neat and small. All the things that one need to enjoy a weekend away in the bush was there. Making one focus on all the activities that Mabalingwe has to offer and knowing that after everything a comfortable place awaits you.
Die Vrolike Vark offers excellent accommodation in a very clean, tidy, well-furnished unit. Communication with owners was very friendly and helpful.
A wonderful place! Had a great stay and met friendly animals. Would love to go back again anytime.
We had a really nice stay - everything was perfect.
Very nice, very neat and comfortable.
We had a wonderful stay. Not that easy to find but once we arrived it was great.
Very nice stay. Everything we needed was there, clean and tidy. People are very friendly. We really enjoyed it and would come back again anytime.
Very nice place for 2.
It was fantastic. You are so part of nature, the animals hang out on your porch.
We had a wonderful time, the house was tidy and the beds very comfortable. Would like to go again to enjoy the silence of the bushveld. The private boma for each house was definitely a treat!
Very nice stay, unit was neat and clean. Will definitely stay there again.
We stayed at De Vrolike Vark's B unit for a weekend and loved it. The unit was clean on arrival, very tastefully decorated, and it had all we needed for a very comfortable stay. The unit also has a lovely patio and its own lapa, which is only a few meters away. There is plentiful bird life and game walking past on the lawn in front of the units. It is also just a short stroll away from the swimming pool, shop, and other activities/entertainment offered there.
It was very clean and tidy. It is directly across from the main pool and pit-pit area, so the location is great. The only downside for me is that the boma is quite far from the house, but that's understandable because it's a thatched place. I will stay there again for sure.
It was lovely and would love to go again. Very friendly animals that came to visit.
Very good. Peaceful. A plenty of wildlife.
Very very nice. My brother's girlfriend from Russia really enjoyed it.
All went well from entering until we left. Our host was available at all times when we needed to ask any questions. It was our first time, but we will be back for more! The chalet was comfortable, neat and cool inside, with many animals to greet us. Many thanks to you.
De Vrolike Vark offers an exceptional experience in a clean, modern and comfortable environment. The WiFi is reliable, the bedding is clean and white. The proximity of the animals and the private boma add a unique element of enjoyment. I would definitely recommend this accommodation to anyone who has a love for nature, but also appreciates the comfort of a cottage with a homely atmosphere.
Enjoyed every moment, from the booking to our departure. Mandy kept me up to date with everything, what a great weekend! See you again soon. Thank you.
Air conditioner remote didn't work, shower was blocked, water didn't turn off. Was a gift to someone, felt bad that they had to face problems.
We had a great stay and the place was neat. One has very nice interactions with the animals and the braai area is very nice. We did think based on the location that it was a bit more to one side, but then it was between a bunch of houses and is a sectional title.
Our stay was very pleasant, it is quiet, safe and the basics were all in place.
I'll kick off with the positives. The shower and bathroom are beautifully done, and there was WiFi. The room on the surface looks very nice, but digging deeper, we found some issues. A lot of the taps and fittings would leak and were very loose. There is also no place to hang clothing, which is very odd considering there is a big open wall that could easily have four hooks installed. The separation of the bed area and lounge is also very unsafe. There should be a safety railing there to prevent anyone from falling over the edge. The step going out the back is also very high, so anyone with a bad knee will struggle. The braai area also needs chairs; the concrete is fine for short bursts, but it's too far from the fire to sit and braai, so we had to stand and bend over to braai. All of that we could have worked with, but the real issue was the bed. It was advertised as a long, but it's just two singles squeezed together. The website says two single beds, but the same write-up exists on both chalets. So when I read king, I expected a king. Those two singles are not meant to be used as a king, and sleeping across that gap was impossible due to it digging into you. So my partner and I basically slept apart on what are also very uncomfortable and hard single beds. We tried to then sleep on the pull-out beds, but those are far worse. If the bed was great, I would consider staying there again, but mixing a poor night's sleep with all the other issues, I wouldn't consider or recommend it to friends or family.
Outstanding place - sparkling clean, modern, attention to detail even up to power-saving globes. Amazing hosts, friendly and went out of their way. Location brilliant, so close to the entertainment area. Affordable game drives, simply an amazing getaway!
Had a great stay. There were some problems at the house at first, but the owner immediately sent people to fix them quickly.
The stay at De Vrolike Vark was fantastic. Everything is brand new and beautiful. It is a peaceful and relaxing environment. Everything was there that I needed. The communication from the owners was very good and helpful. I would stay there again and highly recommend the place.
First time in Mabilingwe and it was absolutely worth the trip.
Very nice place to stay. Small, but more than enough.
Very nice stay. Owner attended to small problems immediately. Animals, including elephants on your doorstep. Would recommend for couples with small children too.
We enjoyed our stay, it was a good break away.
Very good and peaceful.
We as a family organized a long weekend break with accommodation at De Vrolike Vark. Accommodation was neat and clean and conveniently located.
For the amount of money we paid for the accommodation, we didn't expect a 5-star unit, but the unit was not clean. The unit needs renovation, door frames were in bad condition due to termites.
The warthogs were really happy.
Worth every cent - will definitely be back. Would recommend that cutlery be available in both units and the shower (water pressure unit 13) needs attention.
Booked and any questions or advice or anything the owner was very helpful. Place is neat and it was a pleasure to come there for a long weekend.
It's so peaceful. Chalet needs some TLC. Also extra blanket per bed. Everything was clean. Will definitely want to visit here again.
The reason why I'm saying we didn't enjoy it, is because there was hair all over the place, and in the other room the TV was not working. The bulb on the cooking area was not working, and on our check out day TV on the other room was not working as well. The décor was suspended.
Might just replace some of the devices.
Entrance to units unattended. We expected 2 bedrooms, not 2 separate units (false description). Very uncomfortable. Some of the lights did not work. Had to report. Lid of pot has a screw for holding. Microwave too high on fridge. Wardrobe in "kitchen area" Not decent serving space for meals. Picnic tables outside are nice, but if it rains you can't eat there. No other place to eat. Boards in front of sinks are loose and cloths and plastic bowls fall into the holes. The left-hand unit's wood wouldn't lift so we could use the stovetops, so we had to walk to the unit next door all the time to cook. Can't use both bathrooms at the same time, only one can bathe, no water at shower or just such a thin stream. Water was also very dirty at one point. There was hair in the sink of the right hand unit - not properly cleaned. Path to boma is not properly paved like other units. Couldn't use boma at all, cement fireplace broken, wire to put over fire to grill meat, its legs are off. I felt very bad towards my Mother and sister for the poor accommodation. We wanted to drive, but then we lose our money and could not find other accommodation at short notice. I took pictures of bg, will email them to you. The game drives were wonderful and the nature and animals are beautiful. Accommodation pathetic. The Happy Pig needs a lot of renovation and tlc.
The warthogs become troublesome and aggressive if food is made due to people feeding them. Day visitors spoil pool facilities. Accommodation is very nicely centrally located and walking distance from swimming pool, tennis court, jumping bag, putt putt, cafe and coffee shop. Arrangements from owner were communicated early and very fully, everything was easy to get there and check in.
Wonderful relaxing experience, we really enjoyed the Bosveld.
Everything one needs. Very nice braai area. Walking distance to pool and other amenities. Animals that pass by constantly. No need to drive around to see animals. Beds were nice and comfortable.
Mabalingwe is a peaceful environment with beautiful scenery. De Vrolike Vark is well located in the resort close to all the amenities, so the parents can relax and the children can stay busy.
Affordable accomodation. The place needs a bit of a revamp, as well as good upkeeping. The fact that it's self catering and that there was no stove available was a bit of a let down. Close to everything within the resort. The elephants coming by was quite an enjoyable surprise for us. We enjoyed every moment of our stay, and will be going back again.
See stars.
The house needs some attention!
Unfortunately De Vrolike Vark layout is completely impractical. Especially the outside "kitchen area" which is not really a kitchen. It is very difficult to cook while checking to see if the monkeys are not going to steal your food, which is what happened to my husband. Secondly the Boma is far from the house, I felt the pictures where very misleading in this regard. I would recommend that the accommodation be upgraded like a lot of the neighbouring houses to enclose the kitchen and that the outside seating area be given more attention plus lighting by the path to the Boma. The whole time I felt I was glamping (glamorous camping) which is not what I was expecting or wanting.
We had an enjoyable stay, but did find the accommodation to be a bit on the run down side. Maintenance needs to be done on door frames, the 2-plate stove was missing from number 14, there were no cutting knives and other basic utensils were short. Lacking on the general maintenance side.
We really enjoyed the wildlife and nature.
We really enjoyed the few days. Will recommend it to other people. Beautiful nature and many animals seen, such as blue wildebeest, buffaloes and many impalas etc.
The animals in front of the unit kept us entertained. Comfortable and everything you need is available. Had a nice rain Saturday night. We also saw the rhinos, first time we saw them, our weekend was made. Thank you Lindie for smooth check-in arrangements.
Enjoy the variety of animal visitors in front of the door! The unit is comfortable and has everything you need and is close to everything. Can't wait for the next visit!
De Vrolike Vark is nicely located. Close to the cafe and swimming pool. Take advantage of the wild rides. They pick you up a few steps from De Vrolike vark. Wild animals such as warthogs, nyalas, kudus and wild boars and sometimes elephants are seen from your living room. The unicorn was serviced every day. Mabalingwe is an excellent place for a break and relaxation. The people and the service were great. I can highly recommend the game drives. The rangers are very knowledgeable and were all very pleasant.
We were there enjoying the tea, but had to listen to everyone's music all weekend. The neighbors were making noise from all sides, from early to late, it was really unpleasant. I will definitely not be returning vining.
The unit was dirty upon arrival. Geyser and DStv were both turned off. We had to turn on the geyser ourselves and wait for hot water. Reported DStv problem several times without help.
De Vrolike Vark provided excellent value for money, with daily servicing. It is rustic and could possibly do with a bit of updating, but was completely satisfactory for a family holiday.
Ons het lekker gebly. Pragtige natuur en baie diere.
De Vrolike Vark is excellent accommodation which has exceed all our expectations and the midweek specials made it affordable for people who normally cannot afford this quality of accommodation.
The venue is close enough to Gauteng to have weekend getaways, by far enough away to have the sense of “inni bos”. We will be using the venue again.
Enjoyed it a lot, good service.
Map
Rooms
Eenheid 261B
Eenheid 261A
More photos
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Calendar
Tap any rate to see more detailed pricing.
Price Includes
Check-in/check-out details
House rules
Smoking inside units is strictly prohibited.Noise and loud music are strictly prohibited.
No fires near the units. Fires are only permitted within the bomas.
Fires in bomas must be extinguished before leaving the bomas.
No litter should be left at the bomas.
Cigarette butts should not be thrown outside as they create a fire hazard.
The unit is not serviced daily. It is cleaned before guests arrive. If guests require daily cleaning services, they can arrange this in advance with the owner. Please note that these services are at extra cost.
Eenheid 261B
More room/unit pictures
Description
The self-catering units are brand new and have a bedroom, a living area, a small kitchen, and a spacious patio with lovely patio furniture. It offers accommodation for 2 guests each. Children are welcome to sleep on sofa beds. Each bedroom has 2 single beds which can be converted into a king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Linen and towels are provided, please remember your own swimming towels. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, two-plate stove, microwave oven, tea-and coffee-making facilities, crockery, and cutlery. The lounge area, with comfortable sofa beds, has DStv (Compact Plus), Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and roof fans. Guests can feel free to use the private boma, with a view of a small stream, for a cosy braai or campfire visit. Secure parking is provided. It is within walking distance of the large communal swimming pool, a mini golf course, tennis courts, an astro court, a squash court, table tennis table, pool table, a large inflatable jumping pillow, and a cafe with takeaway food and a shop. Climbing frames and a spacious playroom are available for the toddlers. The children are regularly entertained at the swimming area. The Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horse riding, a restaurant, a spa, a ladies' bar, and the unique Kalahari bush bar to guests.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Entertainment
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a self-catering basis.
House Rules
Smoking inside units is strictly prohibited.
Noise and loud music are strictly prohibited.
No fires near the units. Fires are only permitted within the bomas.
Fires in bomas must be extinguished before leaving the bomas.
No litter should be left at the bomas.
Cigarette butts should not be thrown outside as they create a fire hazard.
The unit is not serviced daily. It is cleaned before guests arrive. If guests require daily cleaning services, they can arrange this in advance with the owner. Please note that these services are at extra cost.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The self-catering units are brand new and have a bedroom, a living area, a small kitchen, and a spacious patio with lovely patio furniture. It offers accommodation for 2 guests each. Children are welcome to sleep on sofa beds. Each bedroom has 2 single beds which can be converted into a king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Linen and towels are provided, please remember your own swimming towels. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, two-plate stove, microwave oven, tea-and coffee-making facilities, crockery, and cutlery. The lounge area, with comfortable sofa beds, has DStv (Compact Plus), Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and roof fans. Guests can feel free to use the private boma, with a view of a small stream, for a cosy braai or campfire visit. Secure parking is provided. It is within walking distance of the large communal swimming pool, a mini golf course, tennis courts, an astro court, a squash court, table tennis table, pool table, a large inflatable jumping pillow, and a cafe with takeaway food and a shop. Climbing frames and a spacious playroom are available for the toddlers. The children are regularly entertained at the swimming area. The Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horse riding, a restaurant, a spa, a ladies' bar, and the unique Kalahari bush bar to guests.
Eenheid 261A
More room/unit pictures
Description
The self-catering units are brand new and have a bedroom, a living area, a small kitchen, and a spacious patio with lovely patio furniture. It offers accommodation for 2 guests each. Children are welcome to sleep on sofa beds. Each bedroom has 2 single beds which can be converted into a king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Linen and towels are provided, please remember your own swimming towels. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, two-plate stove, microwave oven, tea-and coffee-making facilities, crockery, and cutlery. The lounge area, with comfortable sofa beds, has DStv (Compact Plus), Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and roof fans. Guests can feel free to use the private boma, with a view of a small stream, for a cosy braai or campfire visit. Secure parking is provided. It is within walking distance of the large communal swimming pool, a mini golf course, tennis courts, an astro court, a squash court, table tennis table, pool table, a large inflatable jumping pillow, and a cafe with takeaway food and a shop. Climbing frames and a spacious playroom are available for the toddlers. The children are regularly entertained at the swimming area. The Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horse riding, a restaurant, a spa, a ladies' bar, and the unique Kalahari bush bar to guests.
Room Arrangements
Rates
About This Room
Services
Bathroom
Room Facilities
Appliances
Entertainment
Price Includes
Rates displayed are on a self-catering basis.
House Rules
Smoking inside units is strictly prohibited.
Noise and loud music are strictly prohibited.
No fires near the units. Fires are only permitted within the bomas.
Fires in bomas must be extinguished before leaving the bomas.
No litter should be left at the bomas.
Cigarette butts should not be thrown outside as they create a fire hazard.
The unit is not serviced daily. It is cleaned before guests arrive. If guests require daily cleaning services, they can arrange this in advance with the owner. Please note that these services are at extra cost.
Cancellation policy
before check-in
before check-in
before check-in
Description
The self-catering units are brand new and have a bedroom, a living area, a small kitchen, and a spacious patio with lovely patio furniture. It offers accommodation for 2 guests each. Children are welcome to sleep on sofa beds. Each bedroom has 2 single beds which can be converted into a king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Linen and towels are provided, please remember your own swimming towels. The kitchen is equipped with a fridge, two-plate stove, microwave oven, tea-and coffee-making facilities, crockery, and cutlery. The lounge area, with comfortable sofa beds, has DStv (Compact Plus), Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and roof fans. Guests can feel free to use the private boma, with a view of a small stream, for a cosy braai or campfire visit. Secure parking is provided. It is within walking distance of the large communal swimming pool, a mini golf course, tennis courts, an astro court, a squash court, table tennis table, pool table, a large inflatable jumping pillow, and a cafe with takeaway food and a shop. Climbing frames and a spacious playroom are available for the toddlers. The children are regularly entertained at the swimming area. The Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horse riding, a restaurant, a spa, a ladies' bar, and the unique Kalahari bush bar to guests.
These self-catering units each have a separate entrance and each can accommodate up to 2 guests. Each unit is equipped with 2 single beds that can also be converted to a king-size bed and an en-suite bathroom, with a shower. Linen and bath towels are supplied and the bedrooms are equipped with air-conditioning.
The kitchen of each unit is equipped with a fridge, 2-plate stove, microwave, coffee- and tea-making facilities, crockery and cutlery.
The lounge area of each unit has comfortable couches and a TV with a DStv Premium package. Wi-Fi and a UPS in case of load shedding are also available.
The units have their own private boma overlooking a small stream.
The units are within easy reach of the communal swimming pool, a mini-golf course, tennis courts, a squash court, a table tennis table, a pool table, an astro court, and a shop.
Mabalingwe Nature Reserve is home to the Big 5 and the resort also offers game drives, horseback rides, a restaurant, a ladies' bar and the unique Kalahari bush pub. At the swimming pool, Eddie and Simon will entertain the kids for hours.